We all want to leave a lasting impression—whether it’s in business, networking, or everyday conversations. But sometimes, the way we speak can do the opposite without us even realizing it.
Psychology tells us that certain phrases, while seemingly harmless, can make us come across as unmemorable or even unimportant.
These subtle mistakes can make people tune out, forget what we said, or fail to take us seriously.
The good news? A few small changes in how we communicate can make a huge difference in how others perceive us. Here are seven common phrases that might be holding you back—and what to say instead.
1) “I think…”
We all use this phrase without thinking twice, but it can actually weaken what we’re saying. When you start a sentence with “I think,” it subtly suggests uncertainty—like you’re not completely sure of your own opinion.
Psychologists call this hedging, and it can make people less likely to take your words seriously. Instead of confidently stating your point, you come across as hesitant or unsure.
Imagine the difference between saying, “I think this strategy could work” versus “This strategy will work because…” The second version sounds stronger, more certain, and more memorable.
Of course, confidence doesn’t mean arrogance. But if you want to make an impact, drop the unnecessary qualifiers and say what you mean with certainty.
2) “Does that make sense?”
I used to say this all the time without realizing how it made me sound. After explaining an idea in a meeting or pitching an idea to a client, I’d instinctively follow up with, “Does that make sense?”
I thought I was being helpful—making sure the other person understood. But psychology suggests that this phrase can actually make you seem unsure of yourself, as if you don’t trust your own ability to communicate clearly.
One day, a mentor pointed it out to me. “Instead of asking if it makes sense,” she said, “try ‘What are your thoughts?’ or ‘How does that sound to you?’ It invites discussion without making you seem unsure.”
I made the switch, and I immediately noticed a difference. People responded more thoughtfully, and I felt more confident in my own words. Small tweaks like this can have a big impact on how people perceive us.
3) “Sorry to bother you…”
Apologizing when you haven’t done anything wrong can make you seem less confident and, over time, even less memorable.
Studies show that people—especially in professional settings—tend to respect those who communicate with authority and assurance rather than hesitation.
When you start a conversation with “Sorry to bother you,” you immediately put yourself in a lower position, as if your presence is an inconvenience. Instead, try something more direct and positive, like “Do you have a moment?” or “I appreciate your time.”
Confidence isn’t about being pushy—it’s about valuing your own voice. When you stop apologizing unnecessarily, people are more likely to listen when you actually have something important to say.
4) “I’ll try”
Saying “I’ll try” might seem harmless, but it can actually make you sound uncertain and uncommitted. When people hear this phrase, they subconsciously register doubt—like you’re not fully confident that you can follow through.
Language shapes perception. Research in psychology has shown that people who use more decisive language are often seen as more capable and reliable.
Instead of saying, “I’ll try to get that done by Friday,” say, “I will have that done by Friday.” It signals confidence and makes others more likely to take you seriously.
Of course, life happens, and sometimes things don’t go as planned. But starting with certainty and adjusting if needed is far more effective than sounding unsure from the start.
5) “I’m just…”
For the longest time, I didn’t even realize how often I used this phrase. “I’m just checking in,” “I just wanted to ask,” “I’m just wondering if…” It seemed polite, even softening my requests so they didn’t feel too demanding.
But over time, I noticed something: the more I used “just,” the smaller my words felt. It made my statements sound less important, like I was minimizing my own presence.
And when people don’t see your words as important, they don’t always remember them.
Once I became aware of it, I started cutting the word out. Instead of saying, “I’m just checking in,” I’d say, “I wanted to check in.”
Instead of “I just have a quick question,” I’d say, “I have a question.” It felt uncomfortable at first—like I was being too direct. But surprisingly, no one reacted negatively. In fact, people seemed to take me more seriously.
6) “This might be a stupid question, but…”
The moment you say this, you’ve already undermined yourself. Even if your question is completely valid, framing it this way makes people less likely to take it seriously.
When we downplay ourselves before others can judge us – it’s a defense mechanism, but in reality, it does more harm than good. Instead of protecting us, it teaches people to expect less from us.
There’s nothing wrong with asking questions—curiosity is a sign of intelligence. But instead of apologizing for it, just ask with confidence.
Swap “This might be a stupid question” for “I’d like to clarify something” or “Can you walk me through this?” You’ll sound more self-assured, and people will remember you as someone who speaks with purpose.
7) “I was lucky”
Downplaying your own success might seem humble, but it can also make people overlook your hard work and skills.
When you say, “I was just lucky to get that opportunity” or “It was all timing,” you shift the credit away from yourself—even when you’ve earned it.
People who confidently own their achievements are more likely to be remembered and respected. Instead of attributing your success to luck, try saying, “I worked really hard for that” or “I put in a lot of effort to make it happen.”
Acknowledging your role in your own success doesn’t make you arrogant—it makes you someone worth remembering.
Bottom line: Words shape perception
The way we speak doesn’t just communicate information—it shapes how people perceive us.
Psychologists have long studied the power of language in influencing memory and impression. Small word choices, often made without thinking, can determine whether we stand out or fade into the background.
Confidence, clarity, and intention matter. The words we use can either reinforce our presence or diminish it.
By making small adjustments—dropping unnecessary apologies, speaking with certainty, and owning our achievements—we can change not only how others see us but also how we see ourselves.
Because in the end, the most memorable people aren’t necessarily the loudest or the most charismatic. They’re the ones who speak with purpose.
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